Hay Fever

Hay fever is an acute (short-lived), seasonal attack that is an allergic reaction to pollen. Most often, spring attacks are reactions to tree pollen; summer attacks are reactions to grass pollen; and autumn attacks are reactions to weed pollen.

Symptoms

Hay fever symptoms are usually the same, regardless of the allergen. Common symptoms include itching of the nose and roof of the mouth; itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; headache; irritability; insomnia; loss of appetite; and in advanced cases, coughing and wheezing.

Diagnosis

Hay fever, as with other allergies, is diagnosed by identifying the allergen. This is done by reviewing the patient's medical history, environment, daily habits, and recent changes in lifestyle. Skin tests and blood tests may also be performed.

Treatment and Prevention

A severe case of hay fever may be best treated by removing the allergen causing the reaction or reducing the patient's exposure to it. Many hay fever sufferers will benefit from using an air conditioner, which filters the air and thus keeps pollen levels in the home to a minimum.

Several medications are available for the hay fever sufferer: oral antihistamines, which counteract the histamine that is released by the body in reaction to the allergen; corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation; inhaled nasal preparations of steroids or other medications; eyedrops, which relieve itching and redness of the eyes; and desensitization shots, which cause the body to develop tolerance to the allergen.

There is no way to prevent hay fever, but avoiding the allergen as much as possible may at least help to minimize the discomfort.



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